Managing Burn Blisters: Healing Tips and When to Seek Help

Burn blister wound

Hello, due to the pandemic, it is not very convenient to visit the hospital for a consultation.
I would like to ask some questions regarding a wound.
I had a burn on my calf that developed blisters, and recently I accidentally burst one of them.
Initially, I only squeezed out the serous fluid without any further treatment.
Later, I noticed that there was still some fluid inside that had turned a light yellow and had a slight odor, so I removed the skin and disinfected the area.
Now, the wound has some black spots on the surface, and there is a slight stinging sensation when it comes into contact with hot water or when lightly pressed.
Is this a normal healing state?

Hri, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/01

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Medical regulations state that "a physician must personally examine a patient before providing treatment or prescribing medication..." Therefore, online diagnosis is also not permissible.
If you are experiencing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2021/02/01

More Info

Burn blisters can be a common consequence of burns, particularly second-degree burns, which affect both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and part of the underlying layer (dermis). Managing these blisters properly is crucial for healing and preventing infection.
When a burn blister forms, it serves as a protective barrier for the underlying skin. The fluid inside the blister is a natural response of the body to protect the damaged area. However, if the blister is accidentally popped, as in your case, it can expose the underlying skin to bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

Given your description of the wound, where you noticed a yellowish fluid and an unpleasant odor, it is essential to take immediate action. The presence of yellow fluid and odor can indicate an infection. Here are some steps you should follow for proper wound care:
1. Clean the Area: Gently wash the area with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing the wound, as this can further irritate the skin.

2. Disinfect: After cleaning, apply an antiseptic solution to the area. It’s advisable to use a product that is specifically designed for wound care, such as an antibiotic ointment that does not contain silver ions, as these can be irritating.

3. Cover the Wound: Use a sterile dressing or bandage to cover the wound. This will protect it from further injury and contamination. Change the dressing daily or whenever it becomes wet or dirty.

4. Monitor for Signs of Infection: Keep an eye on the wound for any signs of infection, which can include increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or worsening pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

5. Pain Management: If you experience pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort.

6. Avoid Popping Blisters: In the future, try to avoid popping blisters unless absolutely necessary. If a blister does pop, follow the cleaning and care steps mentioned above.

7. Seek Medical Attention: Given that you have already experienced some complications with your burn, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. If the wound does not show signs of improvement within a few days, or if you have concerns about infection, you should seek medical help. A healthcare provider may need to assess the wound and possibly prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present.

In summary, while some discomfort and changes in the appearance of the wound can be part of the healing process, the symptoms you describe suggest that you should seek medical advice. Proper care and monitoring are essential to ensure that your wound heals correctly and to prevent complications.

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